Fixed base router advice

[Brian Runau]

I am searching for a fixed base router that i can change bits from the top.

Horsepower reccomendtions and brands welcome.

Thanks

brian runau
indianapolis, in

[Rich Engelhardt]

Hello,
Uses?

I'm very pleased with my Freud 1700 - a 2.25HP variable speed router w/above table bit change & adjustments.

I have it mounted under a Rockler #1 top - now discontinued.

It makes "dialing in" exact heights a very simple task.

[Tom Esh]

I like the PC890, which is in the 2.25hp range. Both height adjustment and clamp lever are accessible thru the base. (Note some folks don't care for the way it dumps heat down the shaft to the bit, but I've not experienced any harm to the router or bits as a result.)

[glenn bradley]

The Freuds have very long collets and are easy to reach. A thing to keep in mind is how easy it is to remove your inserts. My old Rockler plates required the removal of three small flat head screws. My lift (loaded with a Milwaukee 5625) uses a twist-lock which is very quick and easy.

[Brian Runau]

Thanks for the feedback

brian

[Brian Runau]

i wonder if someone can tell me the difference between 2 freud models?

FT1702VCEK & FT1700VCEK

They look the same except 1702 has optional plunge base?

They both come with the above table adjustment items?

looks like the same router, but just with the extra base?

Thanks

Brian

[Paul Mathers]

Woodcraft has the Freud 2.25 router on sale comes with both bases fixed and plunge raise bar and above table bit change $129.00

[Brian Runau]

I didn't trust what I saw. Can't believe my own good fortune, oh well.

Brian

[scott spencer]

The only two brands I know of that actually have a collet the extends beyond the for easy above table bit changes are the Freud FT1700/FT3000, and the two Tritons. Several others have above table height adjustments, and with some it's possible to reach down in far enough with a bent wrench with the insert removed.

I've been very happy with my FT1700 (http://www.epinions.com/review/Freud_FT1700VCEK_2_1_4_Horsepower_Variable_Speed_F ixed_Base_Router/content_411774455428) in the router table. It's not as powerful as my Milwaukee 5625, but it's much easier to change bits on, and has been powerful enough to do anything I've needed. When I have lots of cuts than need a big bit and big power, I'll switch to the MW just to spare the strain on the smaller FT1700.

[Bob Johnson2]

NOT the Dewalt 625. Pleanty of power (3 hp) but the collet is to low/short.

[Myk Rian]

i wonder if someone can tell me the difference between 2 freud models?

FT1702VCEK & FT1700VCEK

They look the same except 1702 has optional plunge base?

They both come with the above table adjustment items?

looks like the same router, but just with the extra base?

Thanks

Brian
That's the difference between them.